Michael Jones has launched the annual public appeal of The Fred Hollows Foundation NZ.

Michael Jones is putting his weight behind The Foundation's campaign to raise funds to fight avoidable blindness in the Pacific region, a campaign long supported by The Foundation's late patron, Sir Edmund Hillary.

When Michael first heard that across the Pacific there are 80,000 blind people, and 70% could be cured with a 20 minute operation that can cost as little as $25, he wanted to help. Known for his commitment to building youth leadership in the Pacific, he felt an accord with the Foundation's approach to its work.

"I am shocked by the numbers of blind in the Pacific. It is essential that we invest in Pacific medical leaders so that they can restore sight to our Pacific brothers and sisters."

"Kiwi icons Professor Fred Hollows and the Foundation's first Patron, Sir Ed, called for this approach of helping people to help themselves, and I support this whole heartedly, " said Jones.

The Foundation is launching a fundraising appeal to train and equip Pacific eye doctors and nurses to restore sight in the Pacific region.   Just $25 can help restore sight.  Donate Now

Related Links

•  Corporate and in-kind support
• Watch the story of one sight restoring operation on Campbell Live
  
• Carmel Williams, Executive Director of The Fred Hollows Foundation NZ discusses the challenges of restoring sight in the Pacific. Read more.
• Watch The Fred Hollows Foundation NZ Pacific eye surgeon Dr John Szetu's interview on TV1 news
• The Fred Hollows Foundation NZ Pacific eye surgeon, Dr John Szetu, was a feature guest on Radio New Zealand National's Nine to Noon. Listen here.